*_MORNING NEWS | 8 JUNE 2025* Follow the Chaminukanews24.com channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAiZu0HQbS0w1lUez3v — — — — — — — — — — — — *1.* 'Embrace culture of responsible waste disposal and recycling for a clean, safe and healthy environment' – Mnangagwa *2.* Chamisa's politics of ambiguity continues *3.* Bulawayo councillors slam inaction amid worsening water crisis *4.* Free emergency medical care for road accident victims *5.* Real empowerment means financial independence, not state handouts *6.* Police launch manhunt for tsikamutandas *7.* Bulawayo's stray dog operation fails to launch due to police inaction *8.* New regulatory fees to ease burden on businesses *9.* Prominent farmer accused of killing boy with combine harvester then bribing police officers to evade arrest *10.* Mpofu, Chimombe’s defence object to tendering of new documents *11.* UK e-passport centre to open by year-end *12.* MRP needs US$650,000 to intensify its self-determination international engagement *13.* CCC councillor steals US$700 *14.* Baby dies after plunging into hot porridge as granny brews traditional beer *_FULL ARTICLES BELOW_* 1. *'EMBRACE CULTURE OF RESPONSIBLE WASTE DISPOSAL AND RECYCLING FOR A CLEAN, SAFE AND HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT' – MNANGAGWA* Harare waste collection crisis will soon be over as Geo Pomona Waste Sorting Plant, vehicles and equipment were commissioned by President Emmerson Mnangagwa in Harare this Thursday. Addressing government officials, investors and Zanu PF supporters at the Geo Pomona waste management dump site in Borrowdale, President Mnangagwa warned Zimbabweans to desist from illegal dumping. "As we roll out the modern waste collection system, I urge all of us Zimbabweans to desist from illegal dumping. "Let us embrace a culture of responsible waste disposal, recycling, and environmental stewardship in order to realise our goal of a clean, safe, and healthy environment," President Mnangagwa said. He said the waste collection crisis, particularly in the capital city of Harare has had dire consequences ranging from environmental degradation to public health risks, among other negative impacts. "We have seen outbreaks of diseases, a situation that is wholly unacceptable. Such conditions must become a thing of the past. The plant and the trucks we are commissioning today mark a turning point in our quest towards efficiency in waste management. "Therefore, in line with Vision 2030, my government will continue to prioritize the creation of clean, safe and modern urban environments, which are engines of economic growth. I am, therefore, pleased with the acquisition and deployment of 45 refuse trucks and 100 skip bins by Geo Pomona, with more on the way to come. "Congratulations, Pomona. Through the pages of this equipment, we must see the waste management system being capacitated to efficiently and consistently collect waste across all parts of Harare," Mnangagwa said. He also urged all the players in all towns and cities to take a leaf from such initiatives towards improving waste management in the country. Referring to the Geo Pomona waste sorting plant, the President described it as a "beacon of nation's potential." "The facility is a beacon of our national potential. It represents how infrastructure, when aligned to a national vision, can transform lives, protect the environment, and drive economic growth. It is important to note that waste is not just waste. "Waste is actually a resource. With this modern sorting facility, recyclable materials can be recovered, repurposed, and reintegrated into the economy," he said. Mnangagwa added that waste sorting plant is a critical enabler of the Waste to Energy Project, which will soon contribute between 16 and 22 megawatts of electricity to the national grid. "This is a solution that exemplifies innovation and modernisation." He acknowledged the management and the staff of Geo-Pomona waste management led by its CEO Delish Nguwaya for their clarity of role, not only towards a greener planet but also advancing the realisation of national development goals. "Your accomplishments thus far are applauded and inspirational to others in our region and continent. However, the responsibility of waste management does not lie with Geo Pomona alone. It is the duty of every Zimbabwean." The event coincided with the World Environment Day celebrations Thursday as Zimbabweans joined the rest of the world in celebrating their shared mission of protecting the environment for the present and future generations. The Geo Pomona Waste Management, (Private) Limited is a product of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) venture involving the Harare City Council. *_-NewZimbabwe_* 2. *CHAMISA'S POLITICS OF AMBIGUITY CONTINUES* Nelson Chamisa's recent video urging Zimbabweans to "be steady, be calm" has stirred a familiar mix of hope, skepticism, and debate across the nation. In a brief but heartfelt message shared on the X platform, he reassured his supporters that "the time is coming" and invoked divine involvement, leaving many wondering: what exactly is Chamisa signaling? On the surface, Chamisa's words sound encouraging - offering solace to a populace weary from economic hardship and political stagnation. His promise not to "disappoint you" aims to rekindle faith in his leadership and hint at a pivotal moment on the horizon. For supporters starved of political change, this message could be a lifeline of optimism. Yet, political observers and the public alike are divided. Some see the video as little more than political theatre - a tactic to stay relevant and keep opponents guessing. Dr Wellington Gadzikwa's analysis captures this well: Chamisa may be crafting ambiguity on purpose, neither confirming nor denying rumors of a new political movement. This "strategic haze" keeps his political brand alive but risks frustrating followers desperate for clarity and decisive action. Others, like Dr Arthur Fidelis Chikerema, remind us that Zimbabweans are growing weary of vague promises, hungry instead for tangible leadership that addresses their immediate struggles. A leader who disappears or delays engagement risks losing credibility. Chikerema's pointed question-how can a captain abandon his crew in stormy seas?-resonates deeply in a country where political patience runs thin. The mixed public reaction further illustrates the tightrope Chamisa walks. Some cynics dismiss him as a "content creator" playing the social media game for attention rather than offering real solutions. Meanwhile, detractors brand him as a Zanu PF stooge, undermining his genuine efforts. On the flip side, many still regard him as a beacon of hope capable of rallying the masses and driving meaningful change. This duality reveals the core challenge for Chamisa: balancing the need to maintain visibility and inspire hope with the urgency for concrete plans and transparent communication. Words alone cannot rebuild trust or reshape Zimbabwe's political landscape; actions must follow. The question remains: will Chamisa move beyond symbolic gestures to offer the leadership Zimbabweans desperately need? Or will he remain locked in a cycle of strategic ambiguity, tantalizing supporters with promises but delivering little? Zimbabwe is at a crossroads, and its people deserve more than vague reassurances. They need a leader willing to step up, take risks, and provide clear direction. For Chamisa, the choice is stark: transform hope into action or watch that hope fade into political noise. *_-Bulawayo24_* 3. *BULAWAYO COUNCILLORS SLAM INACTION AMID WORSENING WATER CRISIS* City councillors have voiced mounting concern over Bulawayo's deepening water crisis, accusing the municipal committee responsible for managing future supplies of failing to provide practical solutions to the ongoing shortage that has left residents in many suburbs without water for over two weeks. During a full council meeting on Wednesday at City Hall, councillors from across the city called out the Future Water Supplies and Water Action Committee, arguing that the body had become too focused on technical projections and long-term planning, while ignoring residents' pressing needs. Ward 22 Councillor Bruce Moyo was among those who criticised the committee, saying residents in suburbs like Nkulumane and Nketa had gone without water for extended periods. "I noticed not much has been done in terms of providing practical solutions to the problem of delivering water to the residents of Bulawayo," said Moyo. "People have gone without water for two weeks." He also warned that continued inaction risked undermining public trust, particularly as the city proceeds with its controversial plan to establish a municipal water utility. "To residents, it seems like the council is always giving excuses. There's a perception that the crisis is being manufactured to justify a water utility agenda," he added. Moyo urged the committee to develop short-term interventions, while engineers work to anticipate and mitigate future disruptions. Ward 3 Councillor Mxolisi Mhlangu echoed concerns about the slow pace of progress but pointed to resource limitations as the key constraint. "Future Water is hamstrung by the same issue facing the rest of council - lack of resources," said Mhlangu. "Their mandate should be to advise council on alternative sources such as aquifers and act as a liaison with government." He cited stalled initiatives such as the tapping of the Nyamandlovu aquifers and the drilling of 400 boreholes. While discussed extensively, these projects have yet to gain traction due to chronic funding shortfalls. "The focus must now be on securing the money needed to develop these water sources," he added. Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart said the city's biggest challenge is not a lack of water but rather an ageing and inefficient water distribution system. "Bulawayo does not have a water shortage per se. With proper technology and funding, we could harness what we have," said Coltart. He revealed that over 40% of the city's treated water is lost before reaching consumers - a staggering figure of non-revenue water caused by leaking pipes and outdated infrastructure. "We need to address our reticulation system and invest in recycling. Cities like London recycle water up to 20 times. We should be exploring similar technologies," he said. Coltart also cited poor catchment area management as a reason for declining dam levels despite above-average rainfall. He assured councillors that long-term projects, including the Glass Block Dam development and the Shangani River pipeline, are progressing. "We have heard from experts, including those from Botswana, that there's an abundance of underground water. What we need is better drilling technology and larger-diameter boreholes," he said. As the crisis deepens, councillors are urging the city to prioritise emergency interventions such as mobile water bowsers, borehole drilling, and public awareness campaigns on water conservation. With residents growing increasingly frustrated, the pressure is mounting on Bulawayo's leadership to deliver tangible solutions before the city's water woes escalate into a full-blown humanitarian emergency. *_-Bulawayo24_* 4. *FREE EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE FOR ROAD ACCIDENT VICTIMS* Road accident victims will receive emergency medical care at crash scenes and be evacuated to hospitals for further treatment free of charge under a proposed law aimed at overhauling the country’s post-accident response system. Through the proposed Road Accident Fund Bill, whose principles were approved by Cabinet last week, the Government plans to introduce a comprehensive road emergency support framework covering medical expenses at State hospitals, evacuation from crash scenes and funeral costs in the event of death at no cost to the victims or their families. The proposed law will establish a Road Accident Fund (RAF), which will be financed primarily through the redirection of 20 percent of premiums paid by motorists to insurers for third-party vehicle insurance to the kitty. Last year, motor vehicle insurance generated just over ZiG2 billion and US$112 million in revenue for local insurers. Treasury will also make additional contributions. It is envisaged that an overhaul of the post-crash response system, which has long been criticised for being inadequate and slow, will help save thousands of victims of road accidents. Currently, many accident victims fail to receive timely medical attention because emergency medical service providers demand upfront payment guarantees before offering help to those involved in road accidents. As a result, numerous lives are lost or permanently affected during the critical “golden hour” — the first hour after a traumatic injury, when prompt treatment offers the highest chance of survival. Also, the compulsory third-party vehicle insurance scheme requires fault to be determined by the courts before any compensation is paid, creating costly delays in providing urgent medical attention. The authorities have established that emergency service providers are often reluctant to act without assurance of payment, as there is no clear mechanism for covering their costs under the current system. According to the memorandum of principles for the Road Accident Fund Bill presented to the Cabinet Committee on Legislation by Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona, the current framework is “weak and virtually non-existent”. The memorandum states that, under existing insurance packages, there is no provision for the immediate evacuation of accident survivors or the timely disbursement of funds to cover medical treatment. “Within the inadequate existing insurance cover packages, there is no provision for the immediate evacuation of accident survivors to medical facilities,” reads the memorandum. “Further, in all cases, fault-based liability has to be determined first, before any payout is made. “Emergency services are generally reluctant to provide medical services where there is no guarantee for payment because there is no clear mechanism for payment for the provision of emergency services. “In light of the past major accidents, some of which were declared National Disasters, and failure by emergency services to respond within the ‘golden hour’, there is need to review the effectiveness of the compulsory third-party insurance with a view to improve emergency responsiveness to RTAs (road traffic accidents).” The memorandum states that the liability cover offered by insurers presently is not adequate to cover medical and funeral expenses. “Since this cover is fault-based, the challenge is that recourse is only possible after a court verdict, which invariably is a protracted process, especially in the absence of courts of law that are dedicated to preside over road crash matters,” it reads. The proposed RAF will offer immediate assistance to victims, covering medical and funeral expenses. “The proposed Road Accident Fund will provide immediate recourse to medical, funeral expenses and enhance the capacity of emergency service providers and medical institutions to effectively respond to road crashes in order to save lives. “Therefore, the proposed RAF has to fill this gap to ensure crash survivors receive medical attention on the scene of the crash and are then evacuated to medical facilities for further treatment and care.” Crucially, the new compensation model will be based on a no-fault system. This means victims will receive medical and funeral benefits regardless of who is at fault in the crash, although the extent of the coverage may still be influenced by the eventual fault determination. “The system of compensation managed by the fund shall be based on a no-fault system,” reads the memorandum. “No-fault claim system simply means that, after an accident, a claimant receives benefit regardless of who is at fault. “However, the extent of the coverage will still depend on the fault determination. “This will allow beneficiaries to access coverage and benefits in a timely manner after a vehicle accident.” While the RAF will also provide compensation for bodily injuries or death, it will not cover property damage, such as to vehicles or goods being transported. “The fund will be liable only to pay compensation for loss or damage suffered as a result of bodily injury or death. “The effect of this is that the fund does not pay for any loss or damage to property, such as damage to motor vehicles, goods conveyed in a vehicle or such class of loss. “The fund shall be liable for funeral expenses limited to only the necessary actual costs related to burial and/or cremation.” To finance the proposed fund, a portion of existing third-party insurance premiums will be redirected towards RAF. Currently, the third-party motor vehicle insurance contributions are distributed as follows: 12,5 percent goes to brokers; 12 percent to the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe (TSCZ); 5 percent is collected as stamp duty; 1,2 percent goes to the Insurance and Pensions Commission (IPEC); and the remaining 69,3 percent is retained by insurance companies to settle claims. Under the new proposal, 20 percent of the money retained by insurers will be allocated to the RAF. “The insurance industry will remain with 49,3 percent for claims,” it reads. “The 20 percent proposed for the Road Accident Fund shall be reviewed from time to time by way of regulations by the responsible minister in consultation with the minister responsible for finance.” According to IPEC, motor vehicle insurance generated just over ZiG2 billion and US$112 million in revenue for local insurers in 2024, making up 44 percent of all short-term insurance income — significantly higher than fire insurance, which contributed 15 percent. *Saving lives* TSCZ managing director Mr Munesu Munodawafa said the proposed law is a long-overdue intervention that will save many lives. “We are elated about Cabinet approving principles of the Bill,” he said. “It is a Bill that we had been working on for quite some time with the guidance of the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development. “It falls under the fifth pillar of the UN’s Global Plan for the Decade of Action for Road Safety and this has been a missing link. “Under the current framework, emergency responders were reluctant to offer services because they were not sure if they were going to be paid. “On the other hand, third-party insurers would only pay out after fault had been determined, meaning victims would not receive timeous medical attention.” The fund, Mr Munodawafa said, is a masterstroke that would aid in saving people’s lives. “The first hour after one is involved in an accident is the most critical one,” he added. “We call it the ‘golden hour’ and once the law is enacted, it will ensure that road traffic accident victims get the assistance they require on time. “In addition, hospitals were reluctant to offer services to road traffic accident victims not on medical aid. So, we are elated about this new development, which we believe will save lives.” Data from the TSCZ shows that between January and September 2024, Zimbabwe recorded 39 461 road traffic accidents — up from 36 628 over the same period in 2023. A total of 1 532 people were killed during that period, compared to 1 373 the previous year. Injuries also increased from 6 789 to 7 438. According to the 2022 Road Safety Performance Review Report sponsored by the Office of the United Nations Special Envoy for Road Safety, a road accident occurs every 15 minutes in Zimbabwe, while an average of five people are killed on the roads every day. Road accidents claim over 1 800 people annually, while over 10 000 people are injured every year. *_-Sunday Mail_* 5. *REAL EMPOWERMENT MEANS FINANCIAL INDEPENDENCE, NOT STATE HANDOUTS* The truth will set us free. President Emmerson Mnangagwa's recent unveiling of a US$500,000 cash payout to war veterans, under the guise of the War Veterans Empowerment Fund, has ignited widespread debate and skepticism. While the initiative is framed as a noble effort to uplift those who contributed to Zimbabwe's liberation struggle, it raises important questions about the nature of economic empowerment and the sincerity of government programs supposedly meant to improve people's lives. Is this truly empowerment, or is it political patronage repackaged as generosity? This is not the first time the Mnangagwa administration has launched a targeted "empowerment" program for specific groups. To directly receive articles from Tendai Ruben Mbofana, please join his WhatsApp Channel on: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaqprWCIyPtRnKpkHe08 We have witnessed numerous such schemes under his presidency, including the hairdressers' fund under "Hairdressers for ED," the Presidential Borehole Scheme, the housing stands for civil servants, and the agricultural input handouts under the Pfumvudza program. Added to these are the Presidential War Veterans Fund, the Presidential Youth Empowerment Revolving Fund, and the Presidential Youth Mining Equipment Scheme - all portrayed as efforts to uplift citizens but often lacking transparency, accountability, and measurable impact. All of these are branded as empowerment efforts, yet most are designed as loans that beneficiaries are expected to repay. If empowerment must come in the form of a government handout, often wrapped in political rhetoric and debt, then we must question whether our economic system is functional at all. Real economic empowerment does not require a politician's blessing or a state-run program. It is achieved when every citizen, regardless of profession, is able to earn a decent income from their honest work, access financial services, and live a dignified life without begging for state intervention. In a truly working economy, teachers, nurses, drivers, builders, and even vendors would not need handouts or so-called empowerment loans. Their wages or income from their professions would be enough to cater for their basic needs and still allow them to live relatively comfortable lives. This is not just a utopian vision. It is exactly what many Zimbabweans experienced in the 1980s and 1990s. Our parents, who may have worked as mere clerks, drivers, or civil servants, managed to buy or build homes, including in low-density suburbs, bought decent cars, and sent their children to good schools. All of this was possible not because of some empowerment scheme, but because the economy was functioning. Their salaries were sufficient, and financial institutions like building societies were accessible and responsive. Today, the very existence of a multitude of so-called empowerment programs is a loud admission that our economy is broken. Why would a person need state assistance to start a small business or to own a home if the economy was supporting entrepreneurship and home ownership? Why are boreholes being drilled by the state and branded as Presidential schemes if local councils and residents had the means to develop and maintain their own infrastructure? In a healthy economic environment, citizens access loans from banks, backed by the collateral they have amassed through years of productive work. The very fact that people can no longer do this shows just how impoverished Zimbabweans have become. It is deeply troubling that the very government responsible for the collapse of the economy is now exploiting that collapse to present itself as a savior. The Mnangagwa administration is using people's poverty as a political weapon. It offers carefully packaged assistance to targeted groups not out of genuine concern for their welfare, but to buy their loyalty. The timing of these empowerment initiatives, often rolled out ahead of elections or during periods of political tension, reveals their true motive. These are not empowerment strategies; they are political tools designed to keep a poor population dependent and submissive. The war veterans, youth, women, farmers, and other groups being targeted are being used as pawns in a larger political game. Their allegiance is secured through material dependency, not shared ideology or genuine empowerment. In fact, this approach robs people of their dignity. Instead of being supported to stand on their own, they are turned into permanent dependents of a regime that has, ironically, impoverished them in the first place. They are made to feel grateful for what is essentially compensation for the destruction of opportunities that should have been naturally available to them in a functioning economy. This is not empowerment - it is control. True empowerment lies in creating an environment where the economy thrives, jobs are plentiful, infrastructure is reliable, and financial institutions are robust and inclusive. It means enabling people to pursue their aspirations through hard work, innovation, and merit - not through handouts tied to political loyalty. Instead of investing in sustainable economic reforms, the Mnangagwa administration continues to prioritize optics over substance. We see boreholes being drilled with much fanfare while water infrastructure in cities and towns collapses. We see young people being handed mining equipment while access to productive claims remains limited to the politically connected. We see token loans being paraded as empowerment, while banks remain inaccessible to the majority due to lack of collateral and a collapsed credit system. Empowerment is not a photo opportunity; it is a long-term process of structural transformation that puts power - and responsibility - in the hands of the people, not the politicians. It is about economic justice, not political expediency. If the government truly cared about empowerment, it would focus on reviving industry, restoring agricultural productivity, ensuring policy consistency, clamping down on corruption, and strengthening institutions. It would stop seeing citizens as dependents and start seeing them as partners in national development. Until that happens, these so-called empowerment initiatives will remain nothing more than a thin veil covering a deeply flawed and cynical political strategy - one that continues to trap Zimbabweans in a cycle of poverty and dependence, rather than liberating them into financial independence and dignity. Zimbabweans deserve real economic empowerment - not politically motivated handouts that offer temporary relief but perpetuate permanent poverty. *_-Bulawayo24_* 6. *POLICE LAUNCH MANHUNT FOR TSIKAMUTANDAS* A major crackdown on rogue witch hunters known as Tsikamutandas has been launched in Zaka and Nyajena districts of Masvingo Province, following rising reports of fraud, family disruptions, and illegal exorcisms. The operation is being spearheaded by the Traditional Medical Practitioners Council (TMPC) in collaboration with the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP). It targets individuals posing as traditional healers, accused of extorting livestock from vulnerable villagers and accusing people of witchcraft under the guise of "spiritual cleansing." In a letter dated 28 May 2025, TMPC Acting Registrar Givemore Kanda alerted the Officer in Charge of the Zaka and Masvingo policing districts, as well as local District Development Coordinators, urging immediate intervention. "The council notes with concern the increased illegal activities of fraudulent traditional medical practitioners and persons operating as Tsikamutandas swindling villagers of their possessions in cahoots with some traditional leaders and village heads," wrote Kanda. "We are seeking your assistance for the arrest and bringing to book of persons operating as Tsikamutandas throughout Masvingo Province, including the culprits in Zaka and Nyajena." The TMPC clarified that these actions violate both the Traditional Medical Practitioners Act [Chapter 27:14] and the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act [Chapter 9:23], and emphasized that the council does not support such exploitative practices. ZRP sources confirmed their involvement in the operation and called on the public to report any sightings or movements of Tsikamutandas. Officers are also investigating allegations that some traditional leaders and law enforcement personnel are protecting or benefiting from these fraudulent activities. Chief Bota Born Tafirenyika Bwazvo stated that he had personally investigated reports of Tsikamutandas in Dzoro, Mushaya, and Dekeza villages. "I am not involved in any way. I even summoned the headmen who were alleged to be working with them, but they did not come," he said. However, sources within the community have cast doubt on Chief Bota's claims, suggesting he and other local leaders, including Headman Muchibwa, may be complicit. Some allege that Tsikamutandas have been paying headmen up to US$100 per day for permission to operate. The crackdown also seeks to dismantle networks of corruption said to involve police constabularies, village heads, and Tsikamutandas themselves. Reports indicate that bribes are used to bypass livestock clearance procedures, allowing the suspects to keep extorted cattle with minimal resistance. One Tsikamutanda operating in Mutukirwi Village (Bota) reportedly fled after learning he was being sought by authorities and is now believed to be hiding near Bangala Dam, working from abandoned homesteads. Another is said to reside in Chiponda Village (Muchibwa), reportedly at the home of a police constable who is also the aide of the local village head. Locals say Tsikamutandas are frequently seen drinking with traditional leaders at rural shops, raising further suspicions of collusion. While the effectiveness of the operation remains to be seen, it marks a critical move by authorities to curb widespread abuse and restore order in affected rural communities. For years, Tsikamutandas have operated with relative impunity, using fear, manipulation, and superstition to defraud villagers and divide families. The TMPC urged communities to work with law enforcement and only engage with licensed traditional practitioners for medical and spiritual services. As the dragnet tightens, residents are hopeful that this joint effort will bring long-awaited relief to communities plagued by rogue spiritualists and their corrupt backers. *_-Bulawayo24_* 7. *BULAWAYO'S STRAY DOG OPERATION FAILS TO LAUNCH DUE TO POLICE INACTION* A citywide operation aimed at curbing the growing threat of stray dogs in Bulawayo has failed to get off the ground after the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) reportedly failed to cooperate, city officials have confirmed. The initiative, known as the "tie-up order," was scheduled to begin on 5 May 2025 and was meant to run through 30 June, targeting the rising number of stray dogs linked to rabies outbreaks and recent fatal attacks. However, the operation was never implemented. During a full council meeting on Wednesday, Councillor Ntandoyenkosi Ndlovu expressed concern over the programme's apparent ineffectiveness in light of recent incidents, including the fatal mauling of a man in Harare. "I noted that last month the council implemented the tie-up order. May we hear about the successes of the programme, especially after last week's tragedy?" Cllr Ndlovu asked. "Stray dogs and cats continue to roam our neighbourhoods, yet resources were allocated to this campaign. How many dogs have been dealt with, and how many are still roaming?" In response, Ward 23 Councillor Ntombizodwa Khumalo acknowledged that the campaign never commenced due to a lack of coordination with police. "The tie-up order was supposed to begin on 5 May, but it required coordination with the Zimbabwe Republic Police. Unfortunately, there was no cooperation from the ZRP, and the exercise was not initiated," said Cllr Khumalo. The tie-up order was a joint effort involving the Bulawayo City Council (BCC), the Department of Veterinary Field Services, the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), and the ZRP. Under the directive, dog owners were required to confine their pets to their properties, and any unrestrained or unclaimed dogs found roaming would be subject to impoundment or euthanisation. Bulawayo Town Clerk Christopher Dube previously stressed the need for urgent action, noting a rise in rabies cases and reports of dog bites. "The City of Bulawayo has noted that there is an increasing number of people who are being bitten by stray dogs," Dube said earlier this year. Under city by-laws, Bulawayo residents are permitted to keep no more than two dogs on properties smaller than 2,000 square metres, and a maximum of four dogs on larger plots. All dogs must be licensed and vaccinated against rabies. Residents who exceed these limits are encouraged to surrender excess animals to the SPCA shelter in Thorngrove. The council also reiterated that secure boundaries-such as walls and fences-are required for pet containment. Hedges are not considered secure under the city's regulations. The failed operation has sparked public concern, especially in high-density suburbs where packs of stray dogs are often reported roaming at night. Residents say they feel unsafe and fear the spread of rabies, particularly among children who are most at risk of attacks. While the city remains committed to reducing stray animal populations, the setback underscores the importance of inter-agency cooperation. Without the active participation of law enforcement, city officials warn, future efforts may continue to fall short. It remains unclear whether the campaign will be rescheduled or revised in the coming weeks. *_-Bulawayo24_* 8. *NEW REGULATORY FEES TO EASE BURDEN ON BUSINESSES* The Government will soon gazette downwardly revised regulatory fees for three key agricultural value chain sub-sectors — beef, dairy and food processing — as part of ongoing reforms to make local businesses competitive. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to improve the country’s ease of doing business and create a more conducive environment for local and foreign investors. In the beef value chain, farmers, abattoir operators and meat processors currently face multiple fees from different regulatory bodies for livestock movement permits, veterinary inspections, meat grading and slaughter, among other things. These costs are often duplicated across agencies, making it expensive for players to operate formally. It is envisaged that under the new reforms, the Government will consolidate these charges and lower the overall financial burden. For the food processing sector, which includes bakeries, canneries, beverage manufacturers and small-scale agro-processors, regulatory costs currently include inspection fees, product certification charges, health and safety licences, and local authority permits. Many of these are levied annually, creating heavy compliance costs, especially for start-ups. The Government believes easing the regulatory cost burden will unlock investment, encourage formalisation and promote job creation across the agricultural value chain. In an interview with The Sunday Mail, Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube said: “We are making very good progress. The issue really is regulatory fees; it’s not taxes . . . are collected by the Central Government through Zimra (Zimbabwe Revenue Authority) and the regulatory fees are collected by agencies, in line with regulatory processes. “So far, we have been focusing on the dairy sector, the food processing sector, but also the beef and meat processing sector. There is a lot going on there, and very soon you will see us gazette the new fees that will really lower these fees.” He said once new regulations are finalised for these sub-sectors, the programme will be rolled out to other key areas of the economy. “We are moving in stages,” said Prof Ncube. “After these three sectors, we are going to move on to the next sectors. So, we will keep going in stages. “There is a lot of work to do, but we are on to it. We really want to lower the cost of these fees.” Some of the current regulatory fees, he added, will be scrapped altogether. “I cannot front-load what we will implement through the issuance of an SI (statutory instrument), but some of them will be scrapped, for sure.” During the first Cabinet meeting of the year, President Mnangagwa directed his administration to expedite the elimination of excessive regulations and punitive administrative costs imposed by ministries and Government agencies. He said taxes, licences, permits and regulations should facilitate economic development rather than hinder progress. Cabinet has since established a high-level committee to review the existing regulations and fees, taking into account the concerns of industry leaders regarding the burdensome financial costs and hindrances to growth. The ongoing programme is intended to simplify the licensing framework and reduce bureaucratic barriers, making it easier for businesses to operate and thrive. Formal businesses are presently operating in an environment characterised by high tariffs and an intricate regulatory structure that requires businesses to comply with multiple tax and permit obligations across various agencies. This complexity has increased operational costs, making it difficult for some businesses to remain viable. *_-Herald_* 9. *PROMINENT FARMER ACCUSED OF KILLING BOY WITH COMBINE HARVESTER THEN BRIBING POLICE OFFICERS TO EVADE ARREST* A prominent white commercial farmer, Daniel Brink Bosman, is at the centre of controversy after allegedly piercing the skull of a 12-year-old boy with the front-end of a combine harvester, leading to the child's death in 2022. The tragedy occurred at Dandreanum farm in Lions' Den, on the outskirts of Chinhoyi, Mashonaland West, when the victim, Suarance Moffat, and two other minors were marvelling and cheering on the farmer as he steered the giant machine across his maize field. According to the now deceased boy's parents, the farmer, for unknown reasons, drove the harvester towards the children and started chasing them, striking Suarance with a sharp object from the machine. The bereaved family is convinced that at the time of the incident, Bosman connived with one of his drivers, Douglas Zhanewo to concoct circumstances surrounding the boy's death. The victim's father, Tichaona Moffat, told NewZimbabwe.com that in 2022, after the tragedy, Bosman then proceeded to Murereka Police Station, where he made a false report stating that his tractor driver, Zhanewo, had run over the child. "The employee was subsequently arrested and appeared in court on a culpable homicide charge. This is despite our vehement denial that our boy had not been run over by a tractor, which weighs so much it could have flattened his body," said Moffat. "Instead, we noticed that there was a deep cut on his head, which was corroborated by the postmortem results. So, this narrative that he had been run over was a blue lie to cover up for murder deliberately committed by Bosman, who chased the minors before killing my son," he added. Moffat painted a gory picture, as narrated by his other son who witnessed the tragedy, of Suarence's body dangling from the fork on the combine harvester bleeding profusely until he died. Thereafter, Moffat further claimed, Bosman instructed a terrified Zhanewo to remove the body which they later dumped near his homestead. "At the purported scene of the accident, there was no sign of blood at all. This suggests the incident happened elsewhere and the body was dumped where it was found as a broader plot to conceal the murder. Despite raising all these facts, the police are reluctant to arrest Bosman and I strongly suspect money is exchanging hands," said Moffat. A postmortem conducted by Dr. Ivene Maponga on May 24, 2022, concluded that the boy's death resulted from a deep laceration on the head, causing a perforation of the skull. As a result, Zhanewo was discharged in 2024 following the conclusion of the State case under Number CHN/CD/1983/24, which established that the deceased had not been run over by a tractor. The 'slain' boy's family says it has not known peace ever since the unfortunate 2022 incident, which claimed the life of their second-born child. In a desperate bid to seek justice, Moffat recently opened a fresh case against Bosman. "As is tradition, a memorial service should have been held for our murdered son but until now nothing has been done because our boy Suarance's soul is not resting. We demand Bosman's immediate arrest so that he is prosecuted as an accused person, not as an informant," said Moffat. Resultantly, police have since opened a murder case against Bosman under CR Number 45/04/25, as well as a case for filing a false report, CR Number 46/04/25. However, Bosman has not yet been arrested. Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Mashonaland West spokesperson, Inspector lan Kohwera professed ignorance over the case. The family, which suspects corruption which also involves National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) officials, has intensified pressure, through its lawyer Tungamirai Chamutsa of Chamutsa and Partners Legal Practitioners, to have Bosman arrested for murder. In a letter to District Public Prosecutor, Herald Matura, officially received on May 15, 2025, the late Suarance's father demanded justice to take its course. "On 11 April 2025 our client reported criminal allegations against the above accused person (Bosman), of murder of his child Suarance Moffat and making a false report as defined in the Criminal Law Codification and Reform Act (Chapter 9:23). "Statements were recorded at Murereka Police Station from our client and his son Junior Mephis Moffat (a juvenile) on the same day... However, a docket of road traffic culpable homicide was opened..." wrote the lawyers. The same Chinhoyi Traffic police arrested and investigated the wrong person on the same facts under CR28/05/22. "They arrested and charged Douglas Zhanewo with road traffic culpable homicide despite protestation from our client that his son, Suarance Moffat, was not killed by the tractor which was being driven by Douglas Zhanewo," further argued the lawyers. "Our client reported a case of murder against the accused person, but Chinhoyi Traffic preferred a charge of culpable homicide arising out of a road accident. "Further, they distilled the original report of the eyewitness Junior Mephis Moffat. Kindly compare the typed statement of the witness dated 9/04/25 and the handwritten statement recorded at Murereka Police Station on 11 April 2025. Key names of participants and vital materials which are in the long-hand statement, are missing in the typed statement. "Our client is baffled by the statement self-recorded by the investigating officer, one Muchihwa Misheck, dated 16 May 2025, a date which we are yet to live and see. In that statement, what is disturbing is the attitude of Mr Muchihwa in which he is discounting the credibility of other witnesses and evidence. This is outside the investigating officer's jurisdiction and purview," Chamutsa wrote. The lawyers also noted that the wheels of justice are turning slowly. "We are, therefore, instructed to inform you, as we hereby do, that our client strongly thinks that it is in the interest of justice that the accused Daniel Brink Bosman be charged with the crime of murder as defined in section 47(1) of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act Chapter 9:23... "This is said so because there is reasonable suspicion that he killed our client's child, one Suarance Moffat. A prima facie case for the prosecution can be raised," Chamutsa wrote. When contacted for comment on the matter, Bosman refused to shed light on the tragic incident and subsequent allegations raised against him. "I am not at liberty to comment as this matter is still in the courts," Bosman told NewZimbabwe.com. *_-NewZimbabwe_* 10. *MPOFU, CHIMOMBE’S DEFENCE OBJECT TO TENDERING OF NEW DOCUMENTS* Lawyers representing businessmen Moses Mpofu and Mike Chimombe who are accused of swindling the government of US$7 million in a goats pass-on scheme on Thursday protested to the tendering of a standard bidding document allegedly by their company in court arguing it was never part of documents availed when the trial commenced. Whisper Mabhaudhi representing the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) wanted to submit the document as exhibit while leading Precious Isa, a procurement officer in the ministry of Lands and Agriculture. Tapson Dzvetero representing Mpofu as well as Professor Lovemore Madhuku representing Chimombe contested the production of the document leading to a lengthy exchange of barbs between the court, state and defense. Madhuku said his client was being subjected to an unfair hearing further accusing court of descending into the arena while Dzvetero argued that tendering that document now would prejudice his client. “The first accused (Mpofu) was not furnished with the document prior to preparation for this case as provided for by the law. “We were only furnished with the bid document on June 3, which only a day before yesterday. “The trial was already midway. Three witnesses had already led evidence. “The first accused had already tendered his plea and prepared his defence minus that document. “The first three witnesses were cross examined minus that document,” he said. Kwenda then commented that the dicoment was important. “It is the reason why we are gathered here. There is no any other dimension for this court to hear this case other than discussing the bid. Anybody would be surprised that the court would sit and conduct a trial about a bid that sits in the air,” he said Madhuku then stood up and also challenged the document. “The Constitution provides for a fair trial. An accused person is tried on written rules. An accused person cannot be tried on rules made in a trial court. “We haven’t read the document and we do not intend to read it because it was not given to us. “We are also worried that there has been a lengthy exchange of words between the court and the defence of the first accused… our view is that in doing this the court would be descending into the arena,” Madhuku said. Madhuku also said “the right to a fair trial is being infringed right in our eyes. We will however respect the court’s judgment,” he said. Trial is expected to continue this Friday. Mpofu and Chimombe are accused of applying for a goats tender deal using a non-existent company Blackdeck. They both deny the charges. The two have been in jail since their arrest in June last year. *_-ZimLive_* 11. *UK E-PASSPORT CENTRE TO OPEN BY YEAR-END* The development of a new e-passport enrolment centre in the United Kingdom, set to serve the large Zimbabwean diaspora community in the European country, has commenced and is expected to be complete by the end of this year. The initiative has since been onboarded onto the Government’s 100-day cycle projects — a performance-based programme designed to fast-track high-impact projects by setting clear targets and timelines for delivery. The 100-day cycle is part of the Government’s results-based management (RBM) framework, which holds ministries and agencies accountable for measurable outcomes. Projects selected for this programme are monitored closely to ensure rapid implementation, efficient use of resources and timely public service delivery. The UK facility is set to become Zimbabwe’s second e-passport enrolment centre established on foreign land following the successful launch of the first one at the country’s consulate in Johannesburg, South Africa, last year. Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe confirmed that the UK centre will open its doors to the public this year. “We are doing centre by centre,” he said. “Our team has successfully completed the Johannesburg centre, and I am confident that we will finish the UK centre by the end of the year. “This is not just about convenience; it’s about ensuring that our diaspora can access essential services without the need to travel long distances. “We are on track with our timeline, and I urge all Zimbabweans in the UK to prepare for the launch; the target is to be done by the end of this year.” The new e-passport centres being established at Zimbabwean embassies and consulates are equipped with state-of-the-art technology to ensure secure and efficient processing. Once operational, the UK centre will enable Zimbabwean citizens living in the region to apply for e-passports without travelling back home. Minister Kazembe said the initiative was part of the Government’s broader strategy to modernise civil registration services and strengthen engagement with Zimbabwean communities abroad. “This development is an important step towards modernisation,” he added. “We are committed to making the passport application process as seamless as possible. “We have already established a strong foundation, and we are looking at other regions and countries with Zimbabwean populations based there.” Since the introduction of e-passports in January 2022, a total of 14 enrolment centres have been established nationwide. e-passports are now being processed at the Harare passport registry, as well as provincial and district offices in Bulawayo, Gwanda, Gweru, Lupane, Marondera, Beitbridge, Chitungwiza, Hwange, Mazowe, Murewa, Zvishavane, Chinhoyi and Guruve. This year, the Civil Registry Department is targeting to open additional centres in Mutare and Gokwe South district. In addition to the new centres, the Government is also planning to launch an online platform for passport and national identity card applications. The platform will streamline the process of accessing essential civic documents. *_-Herald_* 12. *MRP NEEDS US$650,000 TO INTENSIFY ITS SELF-DETERMINATION INTERNATIONAL ENGAGEMENT* The Mthwakazi Republic Party (MRP) is appealing for US$650,000 to intensify international engagements that seek to push the Zimbabwean government to the negotiating table on its efforts to achieve self-determination of the Matabeleland people to re-establish a Mthwakazi state. In an appeal to MRP members, people in Matabeleland and Midlands, individual institutions local and abroad, well wishers, churchies, religious groups and traditional groups, MRP President Mqondisi Moyo they are asking for funding towards its International Outreach/ Engagement Programme. "Since November 04, 1893, life in Southern Rhodesia, now Zimbabwe, has been characterised by the oppressor-oppressed relationship. The people of Matabeleland and Midlands (Mthwakazi) have been on the oppressed side both under Rhodesian and Zimbabwean epochs. In the former era, the oppressors were the British. In the latter, it is Mashonaland," Moyo said. Moyo said they are cognisant of the borders that separate us from other neighbouring countries. He said the border with South Africa, Limpopo/Beitbridge, was signed by King Lobhengula and Pieter Grobbler representing the then Prime Minister Paul Kruger. "That with Bechuanaland (Botswana) and Ramoquabone/ Plumtree border signed in 1888. The border with Zambia- Livingston / Victoria Falls - in 1888. The fourth border, the one being contested, is the Munyathi river and separates us from Mashonaland was signed in 1891 by King Lobhengula and Star Leander Jameson representing Mashonaland which had been colonised in 1890," he said. Moyo said they are challenging the amalgamation of Mashonaland and Matabeleland that took place on 12 September 1923 without Matabeleland people's consent as this move favoured the British authorities. He said this amalgamation led us to the predicament we find ourselves in, in 1980 Britain handed us to Mashonaland/ Zimbabwe. "We further reflect on the truth where 97 survivors of the Pioneer Column gathered to celebrate the 40 years of Mashonaland occupation in 1890, (1890 to 1930). In 1933 the surviving members of the Pioneer Column gathered to celebrated 40 years of Matebeleland occupation, (1893 to 1933)," Moyo said. He said they are also challenging the 132 years of occupation, dehumanisation, oppression, suppression by the British and Mashonaland/Zimbabwe, 87 years of which were by the White minority rule and 45 years by the Zanu PF government. Moyo said time came when the people of Matabeleland and Midlands called Mthwakazi, decided that they could not endure subjugation and oppression anymore. Moyo said the need to restore their sovereignty became more and more clear, culminating in the formation on 11 January 2014, of MRP and its goal is to lead Mthwakazi people in this restoration journey, and relieve the same from the agony of Zimbabwean oppression. "The party is now fairly distributed throughout Mthwakazi territory, regional and international. Its restorative agenda has been, and continues to be, propagated among the people. Many have responded well to the call to join the liberation efforts. Efforts by detractors to stop the party from spreading were overcome," he said. "In 2019, the party announced its intention to engage the international community concerning its self-determination agenda beginning 2020. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic temporarily derailed the plans. But as soon as opportunity availed itself, the party managed to reach out to the international community through correspondence. In few instances, face-to-face interactions took place." He said since the need for self-determination is ever growing in response to the oppressor's escalation of oppression, the party must also aggressively escalate its outreach to the international community. Moyo said the time is now for the world to understand how 'serious we are' with restoring the rights of the Mthwakazi people. "This time around, we want to physically knock at every office that is relevant to forcing the Zimbabwean government to the negotiating table with us. We want face-to-face discussions with key world leaders and governments. We believe that through such, tangible outcomes for Mthwakazi are guaranteed," he said. Moyo said the party needs to make trips to various countries to meet officials in the Sadc offices in Gavborone, Botswana, African Union in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, United Nations in New York, United States, the African Commission on Human and People's Rights in Banjul in Gambia, the International Court of Justice ( ICJ) in the Hague, Netherlands, the English Royal Palace in the United Kingdom, the United States Government in Washington DC, United States of America, the British Government in London, United Kingdom, Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights ( OHCHR), International Criminal Court ( ICC) in the Hague, Netherlands and other relevant International stakeholders who have responded to our letters. "The purpose of these trips shall be to present our self-determination agenda which seek to grant Mthwakazi the status of a sovereign country, present the Gukurahundi Genocide issue and lobby for comprehensive, transparent and satisfactory restitutitive measures, campaign for the recognition of Mthwakazi Republic Party as a legitimate organisation that has been entrusted by Mthwakazi people to lead the restoration agenda and to seek international partnership and collaboration for the party," Moyo said. "The money will meet costs for travel, accommodation, food and refreshments for delegates and other logistics and contingencies as may be necessary for such missions. The total cost for the Program is estimated at US$650 000 the equivalent of R11 695 767,52." *_-Bulawayo24_* 13. *CCC COUNCILLOR STEALS US$700* Citizen Coalition for Change (CCC) councillor for Ward 15, Mphoengs, Sydney Ngwenya is in trouble after he allegedly stole US$700 from his ward campfire committee account. The 55-year-old councillor was dragged to Plumtree magistrates' courts yesterday. He appeared before Magistrate Joshua Nembaware, who granted him US$50 bail. The state led by Selestine Madziwa alleged that sometime in 2023, Campfire Mangwe Rural District Council opened a ZB bank account and the councillor put as one of the signatories. On March 26 last year, the councillor and one signatory, Benjamin Ncube withdrew US$700 instead of US$84 for travelling expenses. On May 3, Bernard Moyo confronted the councillor on why he withdrew a larger sum of money than expected, and he said he had loaned himself. A police report was filed, leading to the arrest of the councillor. *_-Bulawayo24_* 14. *BABY DIES AFTER PLUNGING INTO HOT PORRIDGE AS GRANNY BREWS TRADITIONAL BEER* A grandmother is regretting embarking on a traditional beer brewing hustle after her two-year-old grandchild died tragically after falling into a dish full of hot porridge as she prepared the drink. The incident, which occurred Tuesday at Nzovunde village, was confirmed by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP). "The ZRP reports a tragic incident which occurred at Nzovunde Village, Binga, on June 3, 2025, where a two-year-old toddler fell into a metal dish containing approximately 40 litres of hot porridge. "The dish had been left unattended by the victim's grandmother, who was preparing to brew traditional beer" said ZRP national spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi. The toddler was severely burnt and succumbed to the injuries the following day. *_-NewZimbabwe_*